Health department investigating after El Tapatio diners fall ill

Nash County public health officials are seeking diners who got sick after eating at a Mexican restaurant in Rocky Mount.

Local and state health inspectors are investigating after receiving numerous reports of stomach illness from patrons of El Tapatio, 1296 N. Wesleyan Blvd., on or after Oct. 25, according to a Nash County Health Department news release.

“The restaurant has been working with public health to ensure the health and safety of patrons,” Jerome Garner, an assistant public information officer, wrote in the release. “Patrons are reporting symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills and headache. Nash County Health Department’s Environmental Health staff has not identified any improper food handling practices.”

Garner reminds Nash County residents to wash their hands before preparing food and eating and after using the restroom.

“It is important to remain home while ill, especially if you are a food employee, child care or health care worker,” Garner wrote. “Be sure to see your physician if your symptoms continue or become worse, especially if you are elderly, immunocompromised or a small child. These individuals may be at risk for more severe symptoms.”

Anyone who ate or drank at El Tapatio’s Wesleyan Boulevard location on or after Oct. 22 and became ill with vomiting or diarrhea is asked to call the health department at 252-459-9819 or 252-446-0027.